Iran’s Supreme Leader Comments on Nuclear Talks with US

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s Remarks on US-Iran Talks

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has made his first public comment on the ongoing nuclear talks between the US and Iran, which began on April 12 in Oman. In a meeting with members of parliament, Khamenei expressed a neutral stance on the talks, stating that he is neither “overly optimistic nor pessimistic” regarding the outcome.

Positive Talks, But Pessimistic View of US

Both delegations have described the talks in Oman as positive, and have agreed to convene once more on April 19. However, Khamenei emphasized that Tehran retains a “very pessimistic” overall view of the US. He cautioned that the talks should not be tied to Iran’s national affairs, and that the country’s red lines are clear to both parties.

Background on US-Iran Tensions

Tehran has approached the talks warily, doubting the likelihood of an agreement and suspicious of US President Donald Trump, who abandoned a previous agreement between Iran and world powers in 2018. Trump has recently threatened to bomb Iran if there is no deal.

Khamenei’s Remarks in Full

In his meeting with members of parliament, Khamenei stated, “Talks are one of a dozen dossiers followed up by the foreign ministry. We are neither overly optimistic nor pessimistic regarding them. After all, it is a process which was decided and its first steps have been well implemented.” He added, “Going forward [the talks] should be pursued with focus, the red lines are clear to us and to the opposing party… the talks may or may not reach a result.”

Conclusion

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s comments on the US-Iran talks offer a glimpse into Iran’s approach to the negotiations. While the talks have been described as positive, Khamenei’s neutral stance and pessimistic view of the US suggest that Tehran remains cautious and skeptical of the outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the current state of the US-Iran talks?
A: The talks have been described as positive, with both delegations agreeing to convene once more on April 19.

Q: Has an agreement been reached?
A: No, an agreement has not been reached. However, the talks are ongoing and further negotiations are planned.

Q: What is Iran’s stance on the talks?
A: Iran remains cautious and skeptical of the outcome, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei expressing a neutral stance on the talks.

Q: What is the background on US-Iran tensions?
A: The tensions between the US and Iran are rooted in the US’s abandonment of a previous agreement between Iran and world powers in 2018.